Legislator

Work Tasks

LEGISLATORS are elected officials, such as US or state Senators and Representatives. They evaluate government activities and enact or amend laws. They formulate and establish government policy and develop federal, state, or local laws and regulations. They identify problems that require new or revised laws and introduce, examine, and vote on bills.

Salary, Size & Growth

$106,000 average per year ($51.00 per hour)

A medium occupation (65,700 workers in 2010)

Expected to grow slowly (0.1% per year)

Entry Requirements

LEGISLATORS have no established training or qualifications. Since these positions are elected, the voters determine whether the person is qualified. Candidates come from a wide variety of occupations. Successful candidates usually become well known through their political campaigns and some have built voter name recognition through their work with community organizations. They usually have a record of accomplishments in paid or voluntary work.